Department:  Parks                                                                                         

Reports To:  Naturalist                                                                                    

FLSA:  Non-Exempt

Job Purpose:

This position reports directly to the naturalist.  The employee will be expected to care for captive wild animals, clean and maintain the nature center, assist with programs, and engage with the public in a professional manner.

Position Responsibilities (include but are not limited to the following):

* Open The Nature Center and do the morning feedings.  Lock up when leaving, making sure that all lights are off and doors and windows are shut and locked

* Handle visitors in a friendly and polite manner answering questions and taking detailed messages for the Naturalist

* General cleaning and maintenance of The Nature Center and its buildings

* Care of captive wild animals, making sure the enclosures are clean, well maintained and fresh water is available at all times

* Limited maintenance of viewing area, gardens, trails and ponds

* Assist with planning, set-up and conducting of programs, events and displays

* Answer the phone, answering machine and handle inquiries.  Take messages as needed.

* Assist with supervising volunteers

* Perform other tasks assigned by the Naturalist or Parks Superintendent 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

* Must be able to handle and care for reptiles (including snakes), amphibians, fish, crustaceans, insects (including mealworms, wax worms and crickets) and earthworms

* Must be able to follow verbal and written directions

* Must have a neat professional appearance, and a courteous manner

* Must be comfortable speaking in front of groups of people of varying ages

* Must be able to work with peanuts, other seeds and grain

* Must be a self-starter and perform jobs with minimal supervision

Minimum Qualifications:

* Education/Training:  High School diploma or equivalent

Working Conditions:

* The position will require weekend work, some evening hours and holidays

* This position requires the ability to work outdoors in a variety of natural terrains and weather conditions

* The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, extreme heat or cold, snow, sleet, ice, wind

Physical Requirements:

* While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to walk, sit, stand, talk, hear, finger dexterity, handle, feel or operate objects, use tools or controls, reach with hands and arms, bend over, kneel, and climb a step ladder.

* The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds

How to Apply: Here is the online application